Thomas Graham

In this engaging discussion, Jeffrey Sachs, a prominent economist, argues for Trump’s Russia policies as a return to normalcy, suggesting a shift in European security responsibility. Bill Browder and Alina Polyakova counter this view, asserting that Trump's approach enables Russian aggression and jeopardizes trust among allies. Thomas Graham supports Sachs’ stance on diplomatic engagement, while Polyakova emphasizes the risks in the context of the Ukraine conflict. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations and the critical need for strategic reevaluation.

In this discussion, Thomas Graham, a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations with extensive experience in U.S.-Russia relations, shares his insights on the complexities of contemporary Russian politics. He examines the historical evolution of U.S.-Russian relations since the Soviet era and critiques the misjudgments American leaders have made regarding Russia's resurgence. Graham emphasizes the importance of understanding Russia's national interests, addressing the power paradox it faces, and advocating for strategic empathy in U.S. foreign policy.

Thomas Graham, a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, shares his insights on Russian history and statecraft. He critiques the U.S. approach to Russia, suggesting that American leaders underestimated its resilience post-USSR. Graham introduces the concept of 'competitive coexistence' as a potential strategy to manage relations. He also delves into the complexities of Putin's motivations and the misjudgments that have shaped current tensions, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of Russia's national interests.